CB McKenzie Likely Out for Season with Broken Kneecap

Cornerback Mike McKenzie injured his right knee during the Saints’ loss to the Atlanta Falcons and x-rays have shown that his kneecap is fractured. McKenzie plans to visit Birmingham physician, Dr. James Andrews this week to consider his options, which may include surgery to repair the knee. If he chooses surgery, McKenzie would then be put on injured reserve while undergoing rehabilitation.

McKenzie sustained the injury while tackling Atlanta receiver Michael Jenkins, stopping him short of converting a third down and forcing Atlanta to kick a field goal. McKenzie had torn his anterior cruciate ligament in the same knee last year, which may have weakened it.

McKenzie did not come back from the ACL tear until week 3 of the season due to the lengthy rehab process. In seven games, McKenzie has one interception and 25 tackles.

McKenzie would be the 10th Saints player to be put on injured reserve this year. Fellow CB Tracey Porter injured his wrist against Minnesota earlier this season. Options to replace McKenzie in the lineup include Randall Gay, Usama Young, and Jason David.

The Saints will owe McKenzie $4.45 million next year, the final year of his contract.